Spine Archive: Cytochrome

The majority of metabolic drug activity occurs in the liver through a group of enzymes also called cytochromes. Cytochromes are found in proteins or in subunits of larger enzyme multiplexes that catalyze redox reactions. Functions of cytochromes can vary greatly from patient to patient. For this reason, medications can be safe and efficient in one patient but not for another.

If you are experiencing side effects from your spine treatment, be it medications or otherwise – it may be time to run a test on your cytochrome function to pinpoint medications that will work effectively for you specifically. This test will also determine medications that you should avoid. In many cases the test is simple, requiring a cheek swab or blood sample.